The Leopard 2A6 is a further
improved version of the Leopard 2 main battle tank. Currently it is one
of the best MBT's in the world outperforming its rivals such as the
M1A2, Leclerc and Challenger 2 in terms of mobility, firepower and
protection.

This vehicle is protected by
a third generation spaced multi-layer composite armor with further possibility to
mount add-on armor plates. Internal anti-splinter lining reduces a number of
fragments in case armor is penetrated. The Leopard 2A6 has an improved
protection against mines.

The new Leopard is armed with a smoothbore
120-mm L55 Rheinmetall gun. This gun is even longer comparing to that,
found on the 2A5. The L55 has a bigger muzzle velocity, consequently it
has better fire accuracy defeating targets at a long range. A newly
developed ammunition for this tank gun increased penetration power.
There are two main types of ammunition, carried by this MBT: the APFSDS-T
anti-tank rounds and HEAT-MP-T multi-purpose rounds.

The Leopard 2A6 carries a
total of 42 rounds for it's main gun. 15 of them are ready to use at any
time, while remaining 27 are stored in the special magazine in the
forward section of the hull. Additional armament includes two 7.62-mm
machine guns.

Vehicle is powered by a rear
positioned MTU V-12 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 1 500 hp. The
Leopard 2A6 has a maximum road speed in 68 km/h. Despite increase in
weight over 2A5 it retains all the mobility and cross-country
characteristics.

Currently the German army
operates approximaly 220 Leopards 2A6 main battle tanks. It is also in
service with the Dutch army (approximately 120 vehicles). Some other
countries are also planning to acquire this MBT.